Teen Mood Swings or Depression? How to Tell

Teen Anger Issues: 3 Warning Signs

Being a teenager comes with its fair share of ups and downs. Between changing hormones, social pressures, academic stress, and the quest for independence, it’s no wonder teens can seem like they’re on an emotional rollercoaster. But when does “normal” teenage moodiness cross the line into something more serious like depression? For parents and caregivers,…

Read More

Teen Sadness vs. Depression: Understanding the Difference

struggling teen girl

Teenagers often ride an emotional roller coaster—one moment they’re laughing with friends, and the next, they’re shutting themselves in their room. This emotional intensity is a normal part of adolescence, driven by hormonal changes, evolving identities, and social pressures. But how can parents or caregivers tell the difference between typical teen sadness and something more…

Read More

Understanding Ayahuasca: A Guide for Parents and Teens

ayahuasca for teens

At Hillcrest Adolescent Center, we recognize the importance of providing families with accurate, science-based information about substances that may impact youth development. In recent years, ayahuasca has emerged from its traditional contexts into mainstream awareness, appearing in media, celebrity testimonials, and social platforms frequented by teens. This guide addresses what parents and teens should know…

Read More

Trichotillomania in Teens

Teen pulling hair

If you’re a parent, teacher, or caregiver noticing that a teen is frequently pulling out their hair—whether it’s from their scalp, eyebrows, or eyelashes—you may be witnessing signs of a condition called trichotillomania. While it might seem like a bad habit or a form of stress relief, trichotillomania is a recognized mental health disorder that…

Read More

Is It Normal For A Teenager to Have a Stuffed Animal?

Teddy Bear

In today’s world, where teens are navigating pressures from academics, peers, and the internet, it’s easy to forget that they’re still growing emotionally. One question that often surprises parents is: Is it normal for a teenager to still have a stuffed animal? The short answer is—yes, absolutely. While it might seem unusual to some, holding…

Read More

ODD vs DMDD: What’s The Difference

lady thinking

Children and adolescents often exhibit challenging behaviors as they grow and develop. However, when these behaviors become persistent and disruptive, they may signal underlying behavioral disorders. Two such conditions are Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD). While they share certain characteristics, understanding their distinctions is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective…

Read More

What Does It Mean When My Child Picks Their Skin?

what does it mean when my child picks their skin

If you’ve noticed your teen picking, scratching, or digging at their skin, you might feel worried and unsure about what this means or how to help. For many adolescents, this behavior goes beyond a simple bad habit and may develop into what mental health professionals call excoriation disorder (also known as dermatillomania or skin-picking disorder).…

Read More

The Difference Between Stress and Distress in Teenagers

Stress and Distress in Teenagers

Teenagers today navigate a world filled with academic pressure, social challenges, family expectations, and the influence of social media. It is natural for them to experience stress, which can be a healthy motivator when managed properly. However, when stress becomes persistent and overwhelming, it can turn into distress, which negatively affects their mental, emotional, and…

Read More

The Affect of Bullying on Teenagers

empty school room showing signs of teen truancy

How does bullying affect teens? Bullying is an unfortunate reality for many teenagers, with lasting effects that extend far beyond childhood. Whether it takes the form of verbal taunts, social exclusion, cyberbullying, or physical aggression, bullying can have a profound impact on a teen’s mental and emotional well-being. In today’s digital age, where social media…

Read More

Teen Truancy: The Causes, Consequences & Mental Health Impact

empty school room showing signs of teen truancy

Teen truancy is a growing concern for parents, educators, and mental health professionals. When a teenager frequently skips school without valid reasons, it can signal deeper issues that need to be addressed. While some may assume truancy is simply rebellious behavior, it is often a symptom of underlying emotional, social, or psychological struggles. Truancy can…

Read More